How do we enjoy the benefits chemicals can offer, while avoiding their potential harmful effects?

UN Environment Head Erik Solheim set the scene for a meeting on how a global chemicals framework should look post-2020 as such.

Over 250 delegates were meeting in Brasilia to kick off talks, known as the intersessional process, aimed at defining what direction and format global chemicals management will take once the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management ends. UN Environment contributed to sessions at the event on strengthening links between science and policy and sustainable chemistry, among others.

Chemicals are very much a part of our daily lives, Mr Solheim noted in his address, but the public and private sectors must work together to ensure they contribute to chemicals’ safety rather than cause problems.

Global chemicals sales are expected to triple by 2050, Mr Solheim reminded participants. Their production takes place much faster than policies or regulations can change, rendering support from the private sector crucial – companies can provide alternatives and reduce pollution from chemicals production while also making a profit.

“Innovation does not mean corporate charity,” Mr Solheim underlined.

For more information please write to mijke.hertoghs@unep.org